Alnwick International Music Festival in full swing

Alnwick International Music Festival started on Saturday and runs until Saturday, August 6. It is showcasing the musical traditions and heritage of countries such as Ukraine, Japan, Ireland, Scotland, Africa, and the USA, with daily performances in the Market Place.

Now in its 41st year, the event is also featuring artists from closer to home, including Northumberland, as organisers look to balance the programme between an international flavour and home-grown variety.

Today's day-time programme features folk singer Andrew Lobb, Matthew and Derek on bagpipes, the spectacular Baghdaddies, crowd favourite Rhythmstix, 50 Shades of Blue, Pauline Vallance, a spoken word performance and No Ocean. A jazz and blues night with star Scottish singer Lorna Reid takes place this evening at Alnwick Working Men’s Club. The jazz and blues session runs from 8pm and admission is £5.

An array of adult and children’s workshops are taking place throughout the week, while Alnwick Playhouse is holding special evening performances on Thursday and Friday.

Tomorrow, a tea dance is being staged in the Town Hall, from 4.30pm, priced £6 (including tea), while a free poetry and music session takes place later in the day, at the Working Men's Club from 7.30pm. .

A family ceilidh is being held in the Town Hall on Wednesday, from 6.30pm to 9pm, followed by a free musicians' session on Thursday at the Working Men's Club, from 7.30pm.

The festival finale will take place on Saturday night with an international evening, featuring the Taiko Dojo Drummers, Ukrainian band Orlyk and supporting acts. It is being staged in the Northumberland Hall, from 7.30pm. Admission is £5.